Taoist Tai Chi
Taoist Tai Chi, Taijiquan, was developed within a religious structure where the movements were known as daoyin. The health benefits deriving from the practice goes without saying. However, Taoist tai chi also involves spiritual cultivation the roots of which are embedded in the religious practice of Chinese Taoism that promoted individual development. The ultimate goal of the practitioner being to return to spiritual health by achieving harmony with Tao. In simple terms Tao being known as the source of all existence.
Rather than discuss the in depth evolution of Taoist tai chi as a martial art it is more beneficial to know how the roots of its beginnings fit into today’s lifestyles and the benefits you can obtain from being a practitioner. Each person has an individual opinion on spiritualism and takes this into the context of becoming a practitioner. 
The forms commonly practised today are not practised with strict adherence to the Taoist tai chi ancient religious writings where religion and exercise are viewed as part of the same religious practice. Forms practised today such as Chen, Yang, Chuan and so on, developed by Chinese families over the centuries, all have their origins in Taoist tai chi. The differences between today’s forms and even that of Taoist tai chi are few. Subtle nuances in all forms indicate the religious origins. 
The distancing of Taoist tai chi practices into today’s forms of Tai Chi has its own lengthy story. Suffice to say that the family forms, protected for centuries, eventually were taught to individuals outside of the family. Over centuries, as the practice spread, the religious practice of Taoist tai chi became less important while the martial arts and health benefits were focused upon. 
Today’s lifestyles and stresses have prompted growing interest in Taoist tai chi techniques with prominent practitioners and individuals willing to champion restoration of the roots of the religious practices. The Taoist tai chi practitioner does not only practice movements of the body for exercise but addresses the individual’s mind and spiritual health as well. Something everyone could use in modern living. Although much is to be gained from knowing the ancient religious roots of Taoism, practitioners today should note that Taoist tai chi techniques are often mystically presented.  The practitioner should focus on the matter of individual development giving regard to the Taoist tai chi techniques but without succumbing to doctrine, myths and legends from almost two thousand years ago. 
Click here for Tai Chi Chuan The Book of Life or here for Tai Chi Theory and Martial Power Advanced Yang Style Tai Chi Chuan.  Further information to be published about taoist tai chi.